Ibn 'Arabī was born in Moorish Spain in 1165 and from his early youth displayed remarkable spiritual aptitude. He went on to travel extensively in the Islamic world and to produce many books, treasures of insight and practical wisdom, which remain fresh and relevant today.

Sufis of Andalusia draws from two of his works, the Rūh al quds and al-Durrat al-fākhirah and contains biographical sketches of some of the contemplatives and spiritual masters whom Ibn 'Arabī encountered in his early years. These portraits bring to life with great vividness a number of individuals remarkable for the intensity of their devotion and service to reality, and contain many memorable stories which throw light on the pinnacles of spiritual facing as well as difficulties and obstacles encountered on the path.